Police in Ayrshire have been forced to release a statement after local residents staged a protest outside the home of a sex offender.

East Ayrshire Area Commander Chief Inspector John Cairns has spoken out after dozens of residents in Stewarton occupied a street where the man is thought to be living.

Videos and photos posted to social media showed the group holding signs reading ‘Kids used to play here. Get him out.’

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The mother of one of the victims said the suspected paedophile had been seen frequenting the address where his family was staying in the town.

However, Chief Inspector John Cairns disputed claims.

Speaking on Wednesday, he said: "Can I provide an assurance that Mr Logan is not in Stewarton and has not been for several days.

"Any suggestions, rumours or reports to the contrary are false and untrue.

“I know where Mr Logan is at this time and where he has been in recent days. That is part of my job and that of my team at Ayrshire Police.

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“Also part of our job is to make people safe and prevent disorder. The presence of people in the Sim Street area in recent evenings has been to the detriment of many residents who are vulnerable due to age and illness. A family have had to seek alternative accommodation for the wellbeing of their children.

“Can I ask anyone who is considering attending Sim Street again to think about the impact they are placing on the health and wellbeing of local residents.

“If you have any concerns or wish to speak to your local policing team please contact them by calling 101.”

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Locals have accused the police of distributing ‘false information’ and stating that the man in question is still in the town.